Luminescent Clay Pigeon Traps

ABSTRACT

An apparatus arranged to activate luminescence in a projectile comprising: a trigger circuit arranged to cause a clay pigeon trap to launch the projectile; and a light emitting source configured to emit a flash of light in response to a signal from the trigger circuit, wherein the trigger circuit is arranged to provide a predetermined time delay in order to allow the luminescence in the projectile to be activated prior to launching.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a 371 application of International Application No. PCT/GB2019/053309, filed on Nov. 22, 2019, which claims priorities to U.K. Patent Application No. 1914452.6, filed on Oct. 7, 2019 and U.K. Patent Application No. 1819582.6, filed on Nov. 30, 2018, the entire disclosures of all of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus arranged to activate luminescence in a projectile. In particular, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus for use with clay pigeon traps. The present disclosure also relates to a clay pigeon trap. In particular, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a clay pigeon trap having an apparatus arranged to activate luminescence in a projectile. The present disclosure also relates to a projectile, and a method for using that projectile. In particular, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a projectile configured to luminesce such that it may easily be seen in low light conditions or at night.

While the invention could be applicable to a number of applications, to aid the understanding of the skilled person it will be described in a non-limiting manner in relation to clay pigeon shooting.

BACKGROUND

In clay pigeon shooting, a frangible projectile target is fired by a trap (also referred to as a launcher) for participants to shoot. At present, clay pigeon shooting is limited by daylight hours since the projectiles cannot be seen in low light or darkness. This is a problem particularly in the winter when daylight is much more limited. Whilst shooting under floodlights is possible, it is not widely accepted because it is very expensive to implement, causes significant light pollution and is can still be difficult for participants to see the projectile.

Luminescent materials are known. Luminescent materials emit radiation in response to an excitation, for example irradiation by a light source. Luminescent materials may include phosphorescent materials, which emit radiation for a sustained period of time (up to several years) in response to excitation, or fluorescent materials, which emit radiation for a short period after excitation.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,568,279 and WO 97/16694 disclose examples of systems that have frangible projectile targets coated with a luminescent material. Emission from the luminescent material is activated by a light emitting source.

The brightness of a projectile coated with luminescent material is dependent upon the amount of radiation that it receives. It is important that the projectiles be consistently illuminated when a plurality of projectiles are launched. This is particularly the case for competitive shooting, but not exclusively so. In darkness and low light, a brighter projectile will typically be easier to see than a dimmer projectile. Such inconsistency provides an unfair advantage to the shooter presented with the brighter projectile. There is therefore a need for an apparatus capable of activating the luminescence of projectiles such that pluralities of projectiles are presented to shooters with substantially uniform luminescence.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided an apparatus arranged to activate luminescence in a projectile comprising: a trigger circuit arranged to cause a clay pigeon trap to launch the projectile, and a light emitting source configured to emit a flash of light in response to a signal from the trigger circuit. The trigger circuit is arranged to provide a predetermined time delay in order to allow the luminescence in the projectile to be activated prior to launching.

Activating the luminescence using a flash, and using the predetermined delay between causing the light source to emit the flash and the launch of the projectile, ensures that all projectiles are irradiated for the same amount of time, equal to the duration of the time delay, irrespective of variations in the time between launches, trap characteristics, flight characteristics of the projectiles and the like. The projectiles therefore all receive the same amount of radiation and so substantially uniform brightness can be achieved across a plurality of projectiles. Differences in brightness due to minor manufacturing inconsistencies in the luminescent material, projectiles, or light emitting source, minor variations in the power supply and the like are considered negligible. The use of a flash also enables the delivery of large amounts of radiation in a short time, without draining an energy source or requiring a light emitting source with significant heat management capabilities.

It may be that the trigger circuit is arranged to: receive a launch input at a launch control device; generate a launch signal for causing the clay pigeon trap to launch the projectile, and then relay the launch signal to the light emitting source and to a launch drive motor of a clay pigeon trap. The time delay may be provided between relaying the launch signal to the light emitting source, and relaying the launch signal to the launch drive motor. It may be that the trigger circuit is arranged such that the light emitting source is connected electrically in parallel to a time delay element and the launch drive motor.

It may be that the trigger circuit comprises an activation control module arranged to be connected between the launch control device, and the launch drive motor and light emitting source.

It may be that the activation control module comprises an input for receiving the launch signal, and an output for relaying the launch signal to the launch drive motor of a clay pigeon trap. Using this input and output arrangement allows the trigger circuit to be provided as a further module that can be connected between existing launch control devices and clay pigeon trap launch drive motors. This may allow the apparatus to be retrofitted into existing systems.

The input may comprise a first plug or socket connector arranged to connect to a connector of a launch control device. The launch control device may be a modular device and may include a button, switch, pedal, or a wireless remote and a receiver for the wireless remote. The launch control device may be capable of sending launch signals at time intervals such that the trap automatically fires without the need for multiple user inputs. The output may comprise a second plug or socket connector arranged to connect to a connector of the launch drive motor of the clay pigeon trap. The second plug or socket connector may be of a form suitable for connection to the first plug or socket connector. For example, it may be that if the input is a female socket then the output will be a corresponding male plug and vice versa. The trap and launch control device may be provided as a modular assembly.

Alternatively, it is envisaged that the trigger circuit may be incorporated integrally into a clay pigeon trap.

The time delay may be of any length of time which is sufficient to allow the projectile to be sufficiently irradiated. In preferred embodiments, the time delay should be short enough not to affect the experience of a shooter. The time delay provided by the trigger circuit may be in the range 1 millisecond to 3000 milliseconds. The time delay provided by the trigger circuit may be less than 1000 milliseconds. In a preferred embodiment, the time delay may be less than 500 milliseconds. It may be that the time delay is adjustable.

The duration of the flash of light emitted by the light emitting source may be longer than the time delay. This ensures that the projectile is being irradiated until it is launched. This may reduce fading that would occur if the projectile were to sit in the launch position after the flash had ended. It may be that the duration of the flash is longer than the time delay plus the time taken for the launch arm to move the projectile away from the field of the light source.

Alternatively, the duration of the flash of light may be shorter than the time delay. This would ensure that the projectile is only irradiated when stationary. This may have the effect of ruling out any small variations in the amount of time for which each projectile is being irradiated due to the flight characteristics, such as speed and direction, of each projectile.

The duration of the flash may be shorter than the time delay plus the time for the launch arm to move the projectile away from the field of the light source and return to the cocked position.

The duration of the flash may be between 1 millisecond and 3000 milliseconds. In one particular example, the duration of the flash may be approximately 250 milliseconds.

It may be that the light emitting source comprises an array of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). LEDs are low cost, highly efficient, can emit bright flashes and are compact enough to be used easily without modifying the configuration of existing clay pigeon traps. Preferably surface mount device (SMD) LEDs are used. SMD LEDs use surface mount technology to mount LED chips on printed circuit boards and are preferable because of their compact configuration. Other light sources are envisaged, such as xenon tubes and lasers.

The light emitting source may emit a peak wavelength in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum, for example, the light emitting source may emit a peak wavelength in the range 430 nm to 480 nm. In a preferred embodiment, the light emitting source may emit a peak wavelength in the range 440 nm to 460 nm. In yet a further preferred embodiment, the light emitting source may emit a peak wavelength in the range 450 nm to 460 nm. The light source may emit light over a broad bandwidth, such as white light, or may emit light at a sharp peak.

Alternatively, the light source may emit ultraviolet light of between 10 nm and 400 nm wavelength. Light sources emitting lower wavelength light in or near the ultraviolet range reduce light pollution around the device, which may distract users. Alternatively, light at visible wavelength may be physically shielded during use.

It may be that the light emitting source comprises one or more light emitting devices provided on a carrier. The carrier may be arranged to be secured to the support structure of a clay pigeon trap. Using light sources mounted on a carrier enables the light source to be fitted to existing traps without redesigning the trap. The carrier may further be arranged to be secured to the support structure of a clay pigeon trap such that the light emitted from the light emitting devices is directed towards a projectile loaded into a launching position of the clay pigeon trap. This ensures that the projectile can be irradiated until it is launched, reducing fading, as discussed above.

According to a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a clay pigeon trap comprising the apparatus of the first aspect.

The clay pigeon trap may comprise a launch arm for launching the projectile. The light emitting source may be arranged to activate the luminescence in the projectile whilst the projectile is in a launching position of the clay pigeon trap, and the launch arm is in the cocked position. This ensures that the projectile can be irradiated until it is launched, reducing fading, as discussed above. The launching position may be on the launch arm itself, or on a launch platform wherein the launch arm sweeps across the platform, to launch the projectile.

It may be that the clay pigeon trap comprises one or more magazines for holding a plurality of projectiles, and a plate separating the one or more magazines and the launch platform. It may be that a plurality of magazines are incorporated into a carousel. The plate may comprise a loading hole for loading projectiles from the one or more magazines to the launching position. The light emitting source may at least partially surround the loading hole facing towards the launching position. The light emitting source may completely surround the loading hole.

The clay pigeon trap may be any clay pigeon trap. It may be automatic, semi-automatic, or manual.

According to a third aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a projectile comprising a frangible body having a coating comprising a luminescent material configured to luminesce when activated by a light emitting source, wherein the luminescent material comprises Strontium Aluminate.

Strontium Aluminates are low cost, and easy to use to coat an object. Furthermore, Strontium Aluminates can provide bright emission at visible wavelengths and are efficient to excite.

It may be that the coating comprises a Strontium Aluminate powder suspended in an adhesive. The luminescent material may be excited by visible and/or ultraviolet light. It may be that the luminescent material is excited by wavelengths approximately in the range 200 nm to 450 nm. It may be that the luminescent material emits yellow green light. The luminescent material may have an emission spectrum with a peak wavelength of approximately 520 nm. It may be that the luminescent material is Strontium Aluminate doped with Europium Dysprosium Oxides.

It may be that the coating is water based, or solvent based, or a mixture. The coating may comprise a mixture of water, adhesive, and luminescent powder. The coating may be applied by different methods, such as spraying, brushing, or dipping. Luminescent coatings emitting different wavelengths and colours of light are envisaged. Yellow green light is considered advantageous as the human eye is most sensitive to green light.

The coating may only be applied to the top side of the projectile. Alternatively, the coating may be applied to the complete surface of the projectile.

According to a fourth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method of using a projectile having a luminescent coating, the method comprising:

activating the coating by irradiating the projectile using a light emitting source wherein the light emitting source is configured to emit a flash in response to a signal from a trigger circuit arranged to cause a clay pigeon trap to launch the projectile; and

launching said illuminated target after the coating has been irradiated by the light emitting source, wherein the trigger circuitry is arranged to provide a predetermined time delay in order to allow the luminescence to be activated prior to launching.

Activating the luminescence using a flash and using the predetermined time delay between causing the light source to emit the flash and the launch of the projectile, ensures that all projectiles are irradiated for the same amount of time, irrespective of variations in the time between launches, trap characteristics, flight characteristics of the projectiles and the like. The projectiles therefore all receive the same amount of radiation and so substantially uniform brightness can be achieved across a plurality of projectiles. Differences in brightness due to minor manufacturing inconsistencies in the luminescent material, projectiles, or light emitting source, minor variations in the power supply and the like are considered negligible. The use of a flash also enables the delivery of large amounts of radiation in a short time, without draining an energy source or requiring light sources with significant heat management capabilities.

It may be that the duration of the flash of light emitted by the light emitting source may be longer than the time delay. It may be that the duration of the flash is longer than the time delay plus the time taken for the launch arm to move the projectile away from the field of the light emitting source.

The method may use the clay pigeon trap of the second aspect and the projectile of the third aspect.

According to a fifth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a system comprising a clay pigeon trap according to the second aspect, and one or more projectiles according to the third aspect.

It will be appreciated that features described in relation to one of the above aspects may be provided in combination with any of the other aspects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an automatic clay pigeon trap according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 2a schematically illustrates the underside of the carousel platform of the clay pigeon trap of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2b schematically illustrates a side view of a portion of the clay pigeon trap of FIG. 1, to illustrate how a clay pigeon is loaded;

FIG. 2c schematically illustrates a top down view of the carousel platform of the clay pigeon trap of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates a clay pigeon according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates a circuit diagram of a clay pigeon trap of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 5 illustrates a method of launching the clay pigeon of FIG. 3 in the clay pigeon trap of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an automatic loading clay pigeon trap 1. The trap 1 has a rotating carousel 3 in which stacks of clay pigeons 5 are held in magazines 10 prior to being launched. A clay pigeon 5 is loaded from a magazine 10 to a launching position on a launch platform 13 of the trap 1, through a loading hole 21 in a carousel platform 19. The trap 1 launches the clay pigeons 5 using a spring loaded launch arm 7 which is driven by a launch drive motor 9. In use, the launch drive motor 9 rotates the launch arm 7 against the force of a spring 11. Further rotation of the launch arm 7 releases the spring 11 which causes rapid acceleration of the launch arm 7. The launch arm 7 then launches the clay pigeon 5 from the launching position. The launch drive motor 9 is powered by a battery 15, and is controlled through a control box 12. The control box 12 comprises a trap power switch 35 which determines whether or not the launch drive motor 9 is powered. The trap power switch 35 may further have a nudge function used for releasing the tension on the spring 11, and thus uncocking the trap 1, before storage or transport for example.

Operation of the trap 1 of FIG. 1 will now be described in more detail in relation to FIGS. 2a to 2c . FIG. 2a shows the underside of the carousel platform 19, FIG. 2b shows a side view of a clay pigeon 5 being loaded into the launching position. FIG. 2c shows a top view of the carousel platform 19. FIG. 2b is a cross section through the area of FIG. 2c illustrated by dotted lines 27.

The carousel 3 includes a number of vertical guide rods 4 which define the magazines 10, and align the clay pigeons 5 in each stack. The carousel 3 also includes a base 6 having an opening 8 at the bottom of each magazine 10. The opening 8 at the base of each magazine 10 is sized to receive a clay pigeon 5 and maintain the vertical alignment of the stack.

The carousel platform 19 is provided between the base 6 of the carousel 3 and the launch platform 13. The stacks of clay pigeons 5 rest on the carousel platform 19. The carousel platform 19 has a loading hole 21 aligned with the loading position on the launch platform 13 and sized to allow a clay pigeon 5 to pass through it. In the region of the loading hole 21, a pair of separating knives 23 a, 23 b are provided between the carousel platform 19 and the base 6. The knives 23 a, 23 b are vertically positioned at the height of a single clay pigeon 5 above the carousel platform 19.

The carousel 3 and thus the stacks of clay pigeons 5 are able to rotate relative to the carousel platform 19. The knives 23 a, 23 b are stationary with respect to the carousel platform 19.

The trap 1 is initially held in a cocked position, where the launch arm 7 is in a rotational position just behind the launching position on the launch platform 13, and the spring 11 is held under the highest tension at which it is held, in its operation cycle.

The carousel 3 rotates in the direction shown by arrow 25 to line up a stack of clay pigeons 5 with the loading hole 21. Rotation of the carousel 3 is stopped when the stack is fully aligned with the loading hole 21. As the stack is brought into line with the loading hole 21, the separating knives 23 a, 23 b separate the bottom clay pigeon 5 from the stack allowing it to fall through the loading hole 21 and into the launching position on the launch platform 13. The knives 23 a, 23 b support the rest of the stack, preventing it from falling through the loading hole 21.

Once a clay pigeon 5 is in position on the launch platform 13, the trap 1 is ready to launch it. A launch input is received from a user at a launch control device 31. This sends a launch signal to the launch drive motor 9, which rotates the launch arm 7 beyond the point at which the tension in the spring 11 is released. The launch arm 7 then pushes the clay pigeon 5 along the launch platform 13 to launch the clay pigeon 5.

After the tension in the spring 11 is released and the clay pigeon 5 is launched, the launch drive motor 9 rotates the launch arm 7 back to the cocked position which is just before the release point of the spring 11. Meanwhile the carousel 3 rotates, lining up the next stack of clay pigeons 5 with the loading hole 21 so another clay pigeon 5 is loaded into the launching position. The trap 1 is then held at this positon where it is ready to launch the next clay pigeon 5 in response to a new input at the launch control device 31.

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic example of a clay pigeon 5 that can be launched by the clay pigeon trap 1. The clay pigeon 5 is made of a frangible material arranged to break when hit by lead shot for example.

In the example shown in FIG. 3, the clay pigeon 5 includes a coating of luminescent material 29. The luminescent coating 29 comprises a powder of Strontium Aluminate doped with Europium Dysprosium Oxides suspended in a mixture of water and glue. In this example, the chemical formula of the luminescent powder may be SrAl₂O₄:Eu, Dy. The luminescence of the powder is excited by wavelengths approximately in the range 200 nm to 450 nm. The powder has an emission spectrum with a peak wavelength of approximately 520 nm. This corresponds to yellow green visible light.

The clay pigeon trap 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 a, 2 b and 2 c includes an apparatus 30 for activating the coating 29 on the clay pigeon 5. FIG. 4 illustrates a circuit diagram of a trap 1 including the apparatus 30.

The apparatus 30 includes a light emitting source 17, and an activation control module 2.

The activation control module 2 is connected between the battery 15 and the trap 1. The activation control module 2 includes a first connection 43 to the launch drive motor 9 (via control box 12) and a second connection 47 to the light emitting source 17. The activation control module 2 also includes an input connection 41 from the launch control device 31, shown as a wired foot pedal in FIG. 1. The activation control module 2 further comprises positive and negative inputs 42 a, 42 b, from the battery 15, and positive and negative outputs, 44 a, 44 b, to the trap 1, for powering the trap 1. Therefore, neither the battery 15 nor the launch control device 31 are directly connected to the trap 1. Instead, they are connected through the activation control module 2.

FIG. 2a shows a schematic representation of the light emitting source 17 of the illustrated embodiment mounted on the carousel platform 19 of a clay pigeon trap 1. The light emitting source 17 comprises a number of light emitting devices 16 mounted on a carrier 18. The carrier 18 is mounted on the underside of the carousel platform 19 and surrounds the loading hole 21. The light emitting devices 16 of the illustrated embodiment emit a peak wavelength in the range 450 nm to 460 nm

In the example under discussion, the light emitting devices 16 are light emitting diodes (LEDs) such as surface mounted device (SMD) LEDs. The carrier 18 may be wholly or partially formed of printed circuit board (PCB) to allow connection of the light emitting devices 16 to the battery 15, via the activation control module 2.

As discussed above, when a user activates the launch control device 31, it emits a launch signal. Normally, this is received by the launch drive motor 9. However, with the activation control module 2 in place, the launch signal is received by the activation control module 2.

The activation control module 2 comprises a time delay element 33 configured to delay a signal that passes through it, and a two-way bypass switch 39. The bypass switch 39, time delay element 33, and launch drive motor 9 are connected in series with the launch control device 31. The bypass switch 39 switches between the time delay element 33, and a circuit branch 40 that omits the time delay element 33. In the example shown, the circuit branch 40 only omits the time delay element 33 and no other circuit elements.

The light emitting source 17 is connected in parallel to the time delay element 33 and launch drive motor 9. The trap power switch 35 is connected in series between the time delay element 33 and the launch control motor 9, and these circuit elements are connected in series with the launch control device 31. The trap power switch 35 controls overall power to the trap 1.

The trigger circuit 32 also comprises a limit switch 37. The limit switch 37 is connected in parallel to the launch control device 31, bypass switch 39, time delay element 33 (and circuit branch 40). Any suitable limit switch 37 may be used. For example, the limit switch 37 may be a contact proximity sensor, an optical proximity sensor or any other type of sensor.

The limit switch 37 is open when the trap 1 is cocked, and closed when it is not. Once the clay pigeon 5 has been launched, the launch arm 7 is no longer in the cocked position and so the limit switch 37 is closed. There is therefore a complete circuit which bypasses the launch control device 31 and activation control module 2. The launch drive motor 9 is therefore powered, rotating the launch arm 7 until it reaches the cocked position. At this point, the limit switch 37 is opened and the circuit is broken, preventing further rotation until the next clay pigeon 5 is launched.

The activation control module 2 is connected between the launch control device 31 and the launch drive motor 9 by plug or socket connectors. The circuitry of the module 2 is housed in a casing 14 separate from the clay pigeon trap mechanism. The input 41 of the activation control module 2 comprises a first plug or socket connector arranged to connect to the launch control device 31. The output 43 of the activation control module comprises a second socket or plug connector arranged to connect to a connector of the launch drive motor 9 of the clay pigeon trap 1.

The input 41 and output 43 of the activation control module 2 are arranged such that the activation control module 2 can be connected between existing launch control devices 31 and traps 1. Therefore, the input 41 of the activation control module 2 may be the same form as the input of the launch drive motor 9, and the output 43 may be the same form as the output of the launch control device 31. This modular arrangement ensures that the activation control module 2 can be incorporated into an existing trigger circuit of an existing clay pigeon trap 1 without modification.

With reference to FIG. 5, a method 100 of operation of the apparatus will now be described. Before a launch input is received, the trap 1 has a clay pigeon 5 ready to be launched in the launching position on the launch platform 13, with the launch arm 7 in the cocked position. It will be assumed that the trap power switch 35 is closed.

At a first step 101 the launch input is received at the launch control device 31, a launch signal from this control device 31 is sent to the activation control module 2 via input 41. At a second step 103 the activation control module 2 relays the signal to the light emitting source 17 via output 47, without delay, causing it to emit a flash of light; meanwhile, at a third step 105, the module 2 delays the signal to the launch drive motor 9 to allow the clay pigeon 5 to be sufficiently irradiated by the light emitting source 17. After the delay, at a fourth step 107 the activation control module 2 relays the launch signal to the launch drive motor 9 via output 43. At a fifth step 109, the trap 1 launches the clay pigeon 5, and loads a new clay pigeon 5 into the launch position and re-cocks the arm 7 in the manner discussed above.

In one example, the time delay element 33 may be configured to delay the signal to the launch drive motor 9 by 500 ms. In another example, the time delay element 33 may be able to adjust the length of the time delay in response to a user input.

In one example, the launch signal may comprise a pulsed signal having the duration required to power the light source to emit the required length flash, and for the arm 7 to rotate past the release point of the spring 11. In other examples, the signal may be longer or shorter and the activation control module 2, and/or the light source 17 and launch drive motor 9 may include control circuitry required to achieve the desired length flash and the desired rotation of the arm 7.

The bypass switch 39 allows the trap 1 to be used without the a flash from the light emitting source 17, and without the signal to the launch drive motor 9 being delayed by the time delay element 33. When the bypass switch 39 is in a first position, as shown in FIG. 4 (this will be referred to as the high position), the circuit to the light source 17 is complete, and the time delay element 33 is included in the circuit to the launch drive motor 9. When the bypass switch 39 is in the second position (the low position), the circuit includes the circuit branch 40, and so the light source 17 is in an open circuit and the time delay element 33 is omitted from the launch drive motor circuit.

The bypass switch 39 can thus also be used to ensure no power is provided to the light emitting source 17 when the trap power switch 35 is open.

In the context of the current application, the disclosure has been described with reference to an automatic clay pigeon tap 1 with a multi-magazine carousel 3. The disclosure may be applied to any clay trap, including but not limited to, single magazine automatic clay pigeon traps, manual clay pigeon traps, multi-magazine carousel automatic clay rabbit traps, single magazine automatic clay rabbit traps, and manual clay rabbit traps.

The trap 1 discussed above in relation to FIGS. 1, 2 a, 2 b and 2 c is given by way of example only. It will be appreciated that there are a number of ways of implementing clay pigeon traps 1, and the activation control module 2 is intended for use with any of these types of traps.

In the example discussed above, the activation control module 2 has been described as being connected to the battery 15, launch control device 31 and launch drive motor 9 of a clay pigeon trap 1 via plug and socket connectors, in order to form the trigger circuit 32. However, it will be understood that the activation control module 2, may be connected to the other elements of the trigger circuit 32 by any suitable means. This may include binding posts, either inside or outside the activation control module 2. Connections may be made to these binding posts by nut and bolt style connections with bare end cables. Alternatively crocodile clips may be used. It is further envisaged that a receiver for a wireless launch control device could be integrally formed within the activation control module 2.

The clay pigeon 5 has been described as having a coating 29 comprising a powder of Strontium Aluminate doped with Europium Dysprosium Oxides suspended in a mixture of water and adhesive. It will be understood that any suitable luminescent material may be used, and that such a material may have different emission wavelengths and activation wavelengths. As such, the clay pigeon 5 may be arranged to emit any colour. For example, the luminescent material may be any Strontium Aluminate, doped with any suitable material. Alternatively, other luminescent materials may be used. It will also be understood that any suitable projectile may be used instead of clay pigeons 5.

The light emitting source 17 is shown to completely surround the loading hole 21. It will be understood that this is not always the case, and the light emitting source 17 may be any shape, and may be mounted in any suitable position such that the projectile is irradiated prior to launching. The light emitting source 17 may be mounted in any number of suitable ways, including but not limited to, screws, adhesive, clips, hooks, rivets, nuts and bolts, hook and loop fasteners, magnets, suction cups and the like.

It is further contemplated that the light emitting source 17 could be mounted at other positions on the trap 1. For example, the light emitting source could be mounted on the throwing arm. The clay pigeon 5 could also be irradiated from below using a light emitting source mounted below the launch platform, and a modified launch platform comprising holes. One or both of the underside of the carousel plate, and the topside of the launch platform could be mostly or completely covered with light emitting devices. It will be understood that this is not an exhaustive list.

In the example discussed above, the light emitting devices 16 emit light having a peak wavelength in the region of 450 nm to 460 nm. In one example the light emitting devices may be Osram Duris S5 LEDs having a peak wavelength at approximately 450 nm.

In other examples, the light emitting devices 16 may emit light at any wavelength suitable for exciting the luminescent material. For example, the light emitting devices 16 may emit broadband white light (for example Cree MHB-A LEDs) or narrowband visible light. Alternatively, the light emitting devices 16 may emit broadband or narrowband ultraviolet light in the region of 10 nm to 400 nm. Furthermore, the light emitting devices 16 may emit light over a range extending from the visible to the ultraviolet.

It will be appreciated that in some examples, the peak of emission spectrum of the light emitting devices 16 may coincide with the peak of the absorption spectrum pf the luminescent material. However, this need not be the case, provided there is sufficient overlap between the two spectra for activation of the luminescent material.

The light emitting devices 16 have been described as SMD LEDs, it will be understood that any suitable light emitting device may be used, including but not limited to, LEDs, chip on board (COB) LEDs, xenon tubes, lasers, incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs, halogen bulbs, metal halide lamps and the like. The use of fibre optics in combination with a light emitting source 17 is also contemplated. This would allow a light emitting source 17 to be remotely located away from the clay pigeon trap 1. Light guides could also be used for this purpose. A light guide may allow the light from the light emitting source 17 to enter from the sides of the trap 1, and the light guide may diffract the light towards the clay pigeon 5. Any arrangement suitable for directing light at the projectile may be used.

The launch drive motor 9 and light emitting source 17 have been described as being powered by a battery 15. It will be understood that any suitable power source may be used. For example, mains power may be used.

The activation control module 2 has been described as being connected between the launch control device 31 and the launch drive motor 9 via corresponding plug and socket connectors. It will be understood that any suitable connecting means may be used between these elements.

The activation control module 2 has been described as comprising a bypass switch 39 which allows the trap 1 to be fired without a flash being emitted from the light emitting source 17. It is also contemplated that sensors, such as Hall Effect sensors, may be used to detect current on the launch drive motor 9. Such a configuration may allow it to be known at any time whether the launch drive motor 9 is driving the launch arm 7. This information may be used in a control circuit to prevent the light emitting source 17 from emitting a flash in error, for example whilst the trap 1 is re-cocking. This will prolong the life span of the light emitting devices 16, and prevent untimely irradiation of clay pigeons 5.

The time delay may be provided in any suitable way. In one example, the time delay element may be a microcontroller 33 programmed with software configured to provide the time delay. For example, the microcontroller 33 may be programmed to relay the launch signal a predetermined time after it receives it. In another example, the microcontroller may send a first output to the light source 17 in response to receiving the launch signal, and then send a second output to the launch drive motor 9 following a delay. In yet further examples, the delay may be provided differently. For example, a time delay circuit element 33 may be used.

The described embodiment of the apparatus 30 is modular such that it can be retrofitted to an existing clay pigeon trap. It will be understood that the disclosure is not limited to this embodiment, and the apparatus 30 may be integrally formed within a clay pigeon trap 1.

The launch control device 31 may be any suitable device capable of receiving a user input and generating an electrical signal. The launch control device 31 may comprise an element for receiving a user input such as a button, switch, or pedal. The launch control device 31 may comprise a wireless remote, and a receiver for the wireless remote which is connected to the activation control module 2. The launch control device may be integral with the activation control module. This integral device may be wired to the activation control module 2, or it may comprise a wireless receiver integral with the activation control module 2, and a wireless remote configured to receive a user input. The launch control device 31 may also be configured to receive other user inputs, such as time delay duration, flash duration, and the like. The launch control device 31 may further be configured to display the status of the activation control module 2, such as readiness to launch. It will be understood that this is a non-exhaustive list. The launch control device 31 may be capable of sending launch signals at time intervals, either fixed or random, such that the trap automatically fires without the need for multiple user inputs.

Other modifications to the apparatus 30 are contemplated, such as the use of network connectivity to the activation control module for the purposes of data collection. This data may include timestamps for clay pigeon firings, intelligence on when a shooting ground should replenish a stock of clay pigeons, and the like.

It will be understood that the embodiments are not limited to the embodiment described herein, and that the features of the apparatus 30, clay pigeon trap 1, and projectile 5 may be altered, omitted, or adapted without departing from the scope of the disclosure. It will also be understood that the disclosure includes any feature described herein as well as combinations and sub-combinations of any of the features and equivalents thereof. 

1. An apparatus arranged to activate luminescence in a projectile comprising: a trigger circuit arranged to cause a clay pigeon trap to launch the projectile; and a light emitting source configured to emit a flash of light in response to a signal from the trigger circuit, wherein the trigger circuit is arranged to provide a predetermined time delay in order to allow the luminescence in the projectile to be activated prior to launching.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the trigger circuit is arranged to: receive a launch input at a launch control device; generate a launch signal for causing the clay pigeon trap to launch the projectile; relay the launch signal to the light emitting source; and relay the launch signal to a launch drive motor of a clay pigeon trap, wherein the time delay is provided between relaying the launch signal to the light emitting source and relaying the launch signal to the launch drive motor.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the trigger circuit comprises an activation control module arranged to be connected between the launch control device, and the launch drive motor and light emitting source.
 4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the activation control module comprises: an input for receiving the launch signal; and an output for relaying the launch signal to the launch drive motor of a clay pigeon trap.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the input comprises a first plug or socket connector arranged to connect to a connector of a launch control device; and the output comprises a second socket or plug connector arranged to connect to a connector of the launch drive motor of the clay pigeon trap.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the time delay is less than 1 second.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the time delay is less than 500 ms.
 8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the time delay is adjustable.
 9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting source comprises an array of Light Emitting Diodes.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting source emits a peak wavelength in the range 430 nm to 480 nm.
 11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the light emitting source emits a peak wavelength in the range 440 nm to 460 nm.
 12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting source comprises one or more light emitting devices provided on a carrier, wherein the carrier is arranged to be secured to a support structure of a clay pigeon trap.
 13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the carrier is arranged to be secured to the support structure of a clay pigeon trap such that light emitted from the light emitting devices is directed towards a projectile loaded into a launching position of the clay pigeon trap.
 14. A clay pigeon trap comprising the apparatus of claim
 1. 15. The clay pigeon trap according to claim 14, comprising a launch arm for launching the projectile, wherein the light emitting source is arranged to activate the luminescence in the projectile whilst the projectile is in a launching position of the clay pigeon trap, and the launch arm is in a cocked position.
 16. The clay pigeon trap according to claim 15, comprising: one or more magazines for holding a plurality of projectiles; and a plate separating the one or more magazines and the launch platform, the plate comprising a loading hole for loading projectiles from the carousel to the launching position, wherein the light emitting source at least partially surrounds the loading hole, facing towards the launching position.
 17. A method of using a projectile having a luminescent coating comprising: activating said coating by irradiating the projectile using a light emitting source, wherein the light emitting source is configured to emit a flash in response to a signal from a trigger circuit arranged to cause a clay pigeon trap to launch the projectile; and launching said illuminated target after the coating has been irradiated for a fixed duration by said light emitting source, wherein said trigger circuit is arranged to provide a predetermined time delay in order to allow the luminescence to be activated prior to launching.
 18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the activating and launching comprises the following steps: receiving a launch input, then triggering the light emitting source in response to receiving the launch input, then waiting for the predetermined time delay, and then triggering the launch.
 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the duration of the flash of light is longer than the time delay.
 20. A system comprising a clay pigeon trap according to claim 14, and one or more projectiles having a luminescent coating. 